Croft Cottage

Description from the owner

Croft Cottage is a newly refurbished, 5 star self-catering cottage on the Isle of Harris. It offers spacious, luxury accommodation for up to 6 people.

The cottage is situated down a private road away from the main road, in a recently wooded 26 acre croft, giving a sense of complete seclusion. It enjoys stunning panoramic views of East Loch Tarbert, Scalpay, The Minch and The Isle of Skye. Although it can be seen from the ferry coming into Tarbert, it is well away from passing traffic.

It is within walking distance of Tarbert with its pubs and shops and it is only 10 minutes by car from the outstanding beaches of Luskentyre and Seilebost. The North Harris hills, the highest in the Outer Hebrides are only a 10 minute drive away. Harris is the best location in the Outer Hebrides for access to the outlying islands of Saint Kilda and The Shiants. We offer privacy, comfort and luxury in the heart of an exceptionally scenic area. This holiday home gives a uniquely peaceful environment with access to wildlife and outdoor activities without denying opportunities to be in touch with the wider world through the very latest technology.
The croft is two minutes away by car from the ferry terminal at Tarbert which connects with Uig in Skye (1hr 40 minutes). Stornoway airport is only one hour's drive away.
We are a small locally run business employing up to five part time employees. We are committed to caring for the natural environment and landscape.
House facilities include:
Sauna, Jacuzzi, oil fired central heating, solid oak floors throughout ground level, carpeted stairs and upper floor.
Washing machine, tumble drier, freezer, iron and ironing board in utility area.
Bathrobes and extra linen, fridge, dishwasher, microwave, ceramic hob, electric oven, kettle, toaster, food processor, unique Borgh pottery, polished granite worktops in the kitchen.
Extra z-bed and cot available for young children, also high chairs and stair gates can be provided if required
Satellite TV with sports channels, DVD, stereo, surround sound system, computer with broadband internet access, telephone and a varied stock of books and games.
Private parking for up to 5 cars
Extra fridge, set of golf clubs and trolley, fishing rods, barbecue, picnic and outdoor equipment, coat/boot rack, space for bicycles in the shed. North Harris hills, the highest in the Outer Hebrides are only a 10 minute drive away. Harris is the best location in the Outer Hebrides for access to the outlying islands of Saint Kilda and The Shiants. We offer privacy, comfort and luxury in the heart of an exceptionally scenic area. This holiday home gives a uniquely peaceful environment with access to wildlife and outdoor activities without denying opportunities to be in touch with the wider world through the very latest technology.

The croft is two minutes away by car from the ferry terminal at Tarbert which connects with Uig in Skye (1hr 40 minutes). Stornoway airport is only one hour's drive away.

We are a small locally run business employing up to five part time employees. We are committed to caring for the natural environment and landscape.

About the owner

Alice and Patrick Read

Map

Croft Cottage Isle of Harris, Scottish Highlands & Islands, Scotland

What's Nearby:

Restaurants
Attractions
Nearby Rentals

Additional Location Information

Private secluded location with stunning views over sea islands and mountains. Ten minutes drive from Luskentyre and Seilebost beaches. Within walking distance of Tarbert with its shops and pubs.
Private parking for up to 5 cars at Cottage

More About This Location

Rural retreats

Availability

Last updated on January 30, 2015

Not available for your dates? Check availability for 7 other Isle of Harris rentals

What Past Guests Are Saying

Overall Rating

Five Star cottage set in a beautiful position

Left on 05/06/2014 for a stay in April 2014 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

This owners of Croft Cottage live in the adjacent house and were on hand to meet and greet us and explain everything we needed to know. They had left us an extremely generous welcome pack and the champagne and fresh flowers were a particularly nice surprise. The cottage is in an elevated position with a wonderful view of the islands and sea towards Skye. Every room except the ground floor bedroom shares this view, and there is a sheltered sunny patio for sitting outdoors. It is located just off the road south wards from Tarbert, which is in walking distance, albeit a steepish walk. Convenience stores , a cafe and restaurants are located there as well as the ferry terminal to Skye.
The owners offer complimentary access to the Isle of Harris Golf Club, which is a nine hole course looking over the sea on the west coast. It's very informal, and there are plenty of sets of clubs available for a nominal hire charge of £5 which you leave in an honesty box at the clubhouse.
We travelled throughout Harris and Lewis and visited Scalpay where there are long walks available on very quiet roads. The wide deserted sandy beaches of Harris were an unexpected delight to us as this was our first visit. We thoroughly recommend a visit to Harris , and a stay at Croft Cottage

Wonderful Cottage, Amazing Location, Fantastic Disabled Facilit

Left on 01/16/2014 for a stay in December 2013 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

We went for Christmas as a family The owners couldn't be more helpful with any queries we had (from booking the accommodation to ferry crossing, food shopping & even weather reports for driving up!) We received a very warm welcome, Christmas tree, flowers, food etc in the cottage as well as a guided tour & the owners were on call whenever they were needed.
The cottage itself was very well equipped, all the furnishings,towels,bedding etc are exceptional good quality and there is everything you can possibly need (if there is anything else you require - you ask the owners and if they can they provide it!) The sauna is an added bonus and was well used throughout our week!

The disabled facilities were excellent, the doors are all wide and the wooden floors make it very accessible for wheelchair users. There is also a wetroom adjacent to the downstairs bedroom, this worked out well as all the bedrooms upstairs have en-suites so we had our privacy.

The cottage is 5 minutes or so from the ferry terminal, overlooks the bay on a clear day we could see across to Sky, we will definitely be back

Seclusion, peace and beauty in an amazing setting

Left on 09/16/2013 for a stay in August 2013 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

Croft Cottage suited us 6 beautifully, every amenity you could possibly ask for. The rooms were spacious and spotlessly clean with the most amazing views. We have been to the most lovely cottages over England, Scotland and Wales but Croft Cottage will be hard to beat. Alice and Patrick were charming and had thought of everything - our teenagers and 20 somethings loved the computer area and the sauna/jacuzzi - we loved the patio and the bench up the hill to take in the vista all around us. A more tranquil and beautiful spot will be hard to find. I couldn't stop looking out of the windows at the heather-clad mountains and the stunning scenery all around. Furnishings were top of the range and it was a pleasure to look after everything because you knew such care had gone into the purchases. The quality towels, bedding and dressings gowns were little extras that made our time away so very special. Alice and Patrick have obviously taken much time and care over the surrounding croft and being able to walk freely, it really felt like 'our home'. They seemed to maintain everything beautifully yet not intrude on our privacy in any way.

We loved the beaches, Luskentyre being one of our favourites; equally we loved being so close to Tarbert where the youngsters could take their bikes and see some civilisation!!

Truly a magical time for our family, one we hope to revisit but need to stay longer and explore the area more. Harris is stunning - it definitely does have the best beaches - and you have them all to yourself!!!

A home that's better than home

Left on 04/09/2013 for a stay in April 2013 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

Alice and Patrick have put a lot of thought into Croft Cottage. They are blessed with the location and the views and the peace and quiet but they have designed a beautiful cottage which makes coming home after a long walk a complete joy. They are lovely people who could not make you more welcome. We loved the attention to detail: the fresh flowers, the welcome basket of champagne and much more, the local pottery, the Harris tweed fabrics and the modern luxuries. Our three children ran wild on the croft with alice and Patrick's blessing. We do not write reviews and we could not recommend Croft Cottage more highly.

Welcoming, comfortable home from home!

Left on 11/02/2012 for a stay in October 2012 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

I recently spent a wonderful week at Croft Cottage with my husband and our 3 children (16yrs,14yrs & 11yr). We arrived to a very warm welcome from alice & Patrick on a wet a windy evening. Thankfully the next morning brought a change in weather that lasted the week! Croft Cottage has everything that you could possible want or need for a very happy holiday. The views from Croft Cottage are breathtaking no matter what time of day! The interior is exceptional, very clean and well equipped. The entertainment system, board games, books and computer kept us all entertained when we were not outside exploring beaches and the stunning scenery all around Croft Cottage and Harris, we were lucky enough to see eagles and an otter at Croft Cottage with the help of alice and Patrick. Excellent showers and no shortage of fluffy towels. Welcome pack was well stocked and was most definitely enjoyed from the fresh flowers to the choc's & Champagne! Alice and Patrick have thought of everything and they themselves are what makes Croft Cottage so warm and welcoming! I can find no fault with Croft Cottage which according to my family is very unusual. I hope that we will be able to visit again!

We visited in October and a lot of Harris & Lewis is closed for the winter ( Alice had very kindly gone to the tourist info. before we arrived to get info. about winter opening times etc.). However as the beaches and hills, wildlife and scenery are year round it made very little difference to our holiday. It only made finding somewhere for lunch a little challenging some days. However the cafe's that we did find were very good especically the Temple Cafe at Northton. My youngest summed it up well a few days after we got home "even though a lot of things were closed we always had something to do and we were never bored"!

Excellent in every respect.

Left on 10/30/2012 for a stay in October 2012 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

To be honest, whilst a short review might be seen to be a lazy option, there is in fact very little to say that hasn't already been said. The cottage is superb. It has an incredible location with brilliant views from sunrise to sunset and moonlight views after that. Despite being in business for 6 years, it is immaculate and as clean as if it were brand new. It is very well equipped with beautiful bathrooms, loads of huge high quality towels, bathrobes etc. Providing wifi is great, providing a computer as well is indicative of the great lengths alice & Patrick go to offer a great holiday rental. As I said, there really is little to say that has not been said before. It's a great place and nobody renting it will be anything other than delighted. It was also lovely to see alice and Patrick waving as the ferry sailed out of Tarbert at the end of our holiday - a really nice way to leave.

Excellent in every respect.

Left on 10/30/2012 for a stay in October 2012 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

To be honest, whilst a short review might be seen to be a lazy option, there is in fact very little to say that hasn't already been said. The cottage is superb. It has an incredible location with brilliant views from sunrise to sunset and moonlight views after that. Despite being in business for 6 years, it is immaculate and as clean as if it were brand new. It is very well equipped with beautiful bathrooms, loads of huge high quality towels, bathrobes etc. Providing wifi is great, providing a computer as well is indicative of the great lengths alice & Patrick go to offer a great holiday rental. As I said, there really is little to say that has not been said before. It's a great place and nobody renting it will be anything other than delighted. It was also lovely to see alice and Patrick waving as the ferry sailed out of Tarbert at the end of our holiday - a really nice way to leave.

Fabulous cottage in a beautiful location.

Left on 07/23/2012 for a stay in July 2012 | Whytes

Our first visit to the Outer Hebrides was even better than we had hoped - even our teenagers had to admit they had enjoyed it. Croft Cottage is a lovely cottage with everything you could need in probably the best location in either Harris or Lewis, ideal for exploring either. We particularly enjoyed the beautiful beaches and playing golf and were lucky to have a week with virtually no rain. I would not hesitate to recommend Croft Cottage as a perfect place to spend a holiday.

The perfect family holiday

Left on 07/23/2012 for a stay in July 2012 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

We have had one of our best holidays ever at Croft Cottage. The house, its location, and the welcome from Patrick and alice were just splendid. We were blessed with good weather and made the most of our week exploring Harris and Lewis from top to bottom. The best bit was walking from Croft Cottage and exploring the Minister islands at low tide. A week of sweet air, peace and quiet, and much laughter. Just great!
The house was very well equipped and maintained. It was a pleasure staying there.
Thank you alice and Patrick.

Croft Cottage, Harris in November - magical!!

Left on 06/05/2012 for a stay in November 2010 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

Myself and my husband have stayed at Croft Cottage on the island of Harris on two occasions now, each time in November to coincide with our wedding anniversary.

'Harris in November?', I hear you ask. It was magical!!

The weather during each stay was cold, crisp and fine, ideal for exploring. However, the main attraction was the sky at night - the complete lack of light pollution gives rise to a display of stars us 'townies' never see and we spent many evenings lying on the patio gazing skywards.

Staying in the winter months also means that the spectacular beaches are pretty much deserted - photo opportunities aplenty!!

The cottage itself is superb. It has a clean, modern interior and is in an amazing location - completely secluded yet within walking distance to Tarbert (for shopping, meals etc).

Alice and Patrick, who own Croft Cottage, could not be more welcoming or helpful. Their attention to detail for their guests should ensure that anyone who visits will return - we have just booked for our 3rd stay!

An absolute delight!

Left on 03/02/2012 for a stay in August 2011 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

Alice & Patrick were delightful hosts and thought about every detail to ensure we had a special stay.
Croft Cottage is very luxurious & offers fantastic accomodation. Our two children enjoyed the sense of freedom and fabulous views.
The beaches in the area are beautiful with large expanses of sand, yet very quiet - children enjoyed boarding & swimming in the sea, kayaking in lochs/bays & Skoon Cafe must be visited for both the lunch & art.
My son played his first round of golf at the Harris course which offered lovely views and a pleasant round of golf.

Amazing welcome and beautiful place

Left on 12/13/2011 for a stay in October 2011 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

This is most certainly a five star place for a great get away. Everything you need is here, the welcome is brilliant, the house lovely and the views amazing! Even if the weather is bad (which it wasnt for most of our stay) then the view is still lovely.

Take some time to go to south Harris for the picturesque beaches and fresh air. We took our bikes and despite not being the fittest it was a great cycle!

Perfect relaxation

Left on 11/20/2011 for a stay in September 2011 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

Quality accommodation and everything you could want for. Beautiful view and alice and Patrick were very warm and welcoming. Walking, cycling, golfing - great way to relax and lovely to come back to such a fantastic place to stay. Thank you

Wonderful week at Croft Cottage

Left on 08/03/2011 for a stay in July 2011 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

We have just spent another wonderful week at Croft Cottage, Isle of Harris. We enjoyed our stay so much last year we just had to go back! At Croft Cottage alice and Patrick have thought of everything for your comfort and enjoyment. The house is fully equipped and in addition there is provision of outdoor equipment from wellington boots to golf clubs and even a bucket and spade for the children! Its location is very convenient for exploring both Harris and Lewis.

A-Ma-zing

Left on 06/02/2011 for a stay in May 2011 | Matt

Had a very lovely stay in the cottage. All the facilities are top notch and even though it rained for the whole week we still got to see alot of the islands. The cottages location in Tarbert is very central with the islands and you are only 40 minutes away from Stornoway. There are wonderful and very very large beaches 10 minutes drive down the coast.

The view from the cottage is incredible and the ability to walk down to the beach and see the local wildlife such as seals etc is not to be missed.

Excellent accomodation in Harris

Left on 08/19/2010 for a stay in July 2010 | Trudy

This is the second time that we have stayed at Croft Cottage. As soon as our last holiday finished we booked it for another two weeks & we are planning our return trip already! The actual cottage is decorated to the highest standard and alice & Patrick have anticipated your every need. Croft Cottage is an excellent base for your holiday in Harris.

A little slice of heaven in the Hebredies!

Left on 08/01/2010 for a stay in July 2010 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

Out family spent a wonderful week at Croft Cottage, a tranquil haven with superb views of Scalpay and Loch Tarbert. The cottage itself is beautifully presented with everything you could possibly want to make your stay enjoyable, whether you are eight or eighty.

Located only a short distance from Tarbert it is ideal for access to all other parts of Harris; from Rodel in the south with its famous church, the golden sands of Scarista and Luskentyre to the west and the Clisham and her surrounding mountains to the north and the east side of has a plethora of galleries and art cafes. Whichever way you go the scenery is specitacular and there is something for everyone whether you like to walk, seek out wildlife, fish, paint, eat or simply relax and enjoy the peace and fresh air.

Alice and Patrick are wonderful hosts who even supply fresh eggs from the chickens everyday. Thank you we'll be back!

A Perfect Break

Left on 07/20/2010 for a stay in July 2010 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

This is truely the best self catering experience we have had. The cottage is beautifully decorated and every need is catered for. This was our third visit and we will be back next year. the Western Isles are stunning - there is so much to do but equally if you just want to sit back and enjoy the spectacular views then Croft Cottage is the perfect place to do this. Alice and Patrick are so friendly and it really is a home from home.

Exceeded our expectations in an astounding location

Left on 06/11/2010 for a stay in May 2010 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

A very warm, personal welcome from Patrick and alice set the right tone. Most appreciated surprise of hot smoked salmon and champagne awaited in fridge!
The cottage is extremely well equipped with modern technology, yet comfortable and warm.
Lewis and Harris afford some fantastic fresh food, which we could easily prepare and cook in the lovely kitchen, and dine overlooking the sea...
The bedrooms were well appointed and the showers in the en suites worked extremely well.
The location is superb, with stunning views over the sea and nearby islands. If this can be bettered - we'd like to see it.

A Stunning Retreat

Left on 06/09/2010 for a stay in May 2010 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

A very warm welcome from alice and Patrick in a truly wonderful setting. The house is beautiful, with everything you may need for a luxurious stay, whilst at the same time, reflecting the landscape in which it resides.

Its location couldn't be better! A great feeling of being away from it all with a small, bustling town ten minutes away on foot.

We discovered the delights of the Hebridean larder including the freshest fish and seafood, with a kitchen in the cottage which complemented the produce!

A beautifully appointed cottage in Harris.

Left on 05/30/2010 for a stay in May 2010 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

If you need that 'get away from it all' experience with all the comforts of home then book 'Croft Cottage'.
We had a cozy, comfy stay that provided a base to enable us to explore magnificent Harris.
The beaches were deserted and magnificent and the wildlife abundant. Highlight of the week - seeing several Golden Eagles.
We intend to return.

Relaxing and Tranquil

Left on 05/16/2010 for a stay in April 2010 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

This is simply the best place that we have stayed in all the years of visiting the inner and outer Hebrides over the last 18 years. The location is simply stunning with ever changing views, of sea, mountains and moorland.

The house itself is a delight; modern design, fantastically finished, great showers (there are three to choose from), and for those that like to relax a massive two person bath with whirlpool jets. The wi-fi internet and Sky TV went along way to appease our 14 year old, who needs to constantly be in touch with her friends. The place has all you need for a self catering holiday and is spotlessly clean. It is impossible to find fault.

Alice and Patrick are great hosts, friendly without being intrusive and are there to help you with advice about the island and on hand to help if there are any problems with the house (we had none).

There is a lovely walk out onto the Minister Islands from the House, which on the day we choose was beautiful with seals basking on rocks and sun playing on sea and loch. No better place to be.

If you want somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then we think there is nowhere better. Just dont tell too many people!!

Accommodation to match the view

Left on 05/10/2010 for a stay in May 2010 | J. A. Byrne

The location of Croft Cottage is unparalleled in the Western Isles.
One can enjoy views of Tarbert Pier, the village; the islands of Scalpay and Scotasay and several other small islands in the bay plus an outstanding view across to Skye on a clear day.
No need to close curtains at night – there’s no-one to overlook the rooms and the view should not be shut out.

The house itself is exceptionally well equipped with everything that the visitor needs to make the stay comfortable and restful whilst also giving a sense of being somewhere with more than a touch of luxury.

The provision of picnic & barbecue tools and equipment was a great idea as was the array of wellingtons for rainy days. The outdoor store is just ideal in a place where one may have need of a drying area after being out fishing; boating, swimming or just tramping across the moors and hills.

The hospitality package arranged by Alice & Patrick made us feel very welcome and their collection of books and CDs help to familiarise the visitor with the life and culture of Harris.

All in all, a wonderful location, splendid accommodation and a very warm welcome awaits the visitor to Croft Cottage.

Graham & Pam
London

A lovely break in a great location.

Left on 11/12/2009 for a stay in October 2009 | Graham & Pam

The cottage was, as ever, excellent. The overall experience was enhanced by our hosts and the wonderful weather. To top everything off, we were lucky enough to see an otter at the croft's waters edge.

Luxury

Left on 11/05/2009 for a stay in August 2009 | A FlipKey verified reviewer

We spent a wonderful week here in August. We have stayed in Harris before in 5 star accommodation and this is as luxurious and well equipped as any.

The location is close to the main town of Tarbert which has almost all the shops on Harris. You can walk but it is down the main road (but this is Harris so we are not talking high volumes oftraffic) or over the back hill path.

Although close to town the views are wonderful and it is a treat to see the ferry pass your window, seemingly close enouugh to touch.If I had a quibble (and I am trying hard to find one) I would say that the configuration of the living room doesn't make the most of the view.

The house is equipped with every imaginable piece of equipment and is beautifully furnished. The bedrooms are comfortable and the (3) bathrooms all diferent but each lovely.

The owners,who are very nice, have lived in the croft nearby for years. You are not really aware of them being around unless you want them when they are helpful and friendly.

Add to that the sight of a merlin and a hen harrier from the window and you can see that we were impressed.

5 Star Heaven in the Hebrides!!

Left on 05/27/2009 for a stay in April 2009 | Apple

My husband and I spent a week at Croft Cottage, and we can't wait to go back! It's simply stunning - in so many ways! It's a beautiful location - on a shoreside croft looking out over the islands in the sound of Harris, right across to Skye on a clear day. Best of all, we saw a family of otters playing on the rocks just offshore!

The cottage itself is amazing! Probably the best place we've ever stayed. It's stylish, yet homely and comfortable, and had everything we could have possibly have needed from fishing rods and golf clubs, to a sauna and state of the art entertainment centre!

The hosts have thought of everything. They were so welcoming and couldn't have been more helpful (and they put a welcome pack of champagne, posh chocs and smoked salmon in the fridge)!

We watched the sunset from the white sand beaches of the West Coast, we strode around the croft in wellies borrowed from the shed, had a fantastic meal at the new restaurant in town (I recommend the scallops!) and simply chilled out watching DVDs and playing board games. Absolute bliss!!

About Us

Love for FlipKey

As featured in USA TODAY and recommended by Travel + Leisure in its annual Villa Guide:

FlipKey Elsewhere

New to FlipKey?

FlipKey is a vacation rental marketplace with more than 300,000 rentals around the world. Find the perfect place to stay for your trip, and get great value along with the space, privacy and amenities of home.